What is Quarantine 15?

Admitting we have been cooking and baking in our house a bit more. But that isn't out of the norm really. We live by the term made-from-scratch.

However, for many who are sheltering in place over-indulging on snacks may be the reason yoga and sweat pants are now part of your daily wardrobe. You're not alone.

According to one Sanford Health nutritionist, you may have Quarantine 15. The phenomenon where you gain 15 pounds from being stuck inside during the COVID-19 pandemic. Bri Srnsky, a registered dietitian nutritionist with Sanford Health in Fargo, North Dakota, says that now, more than ever, many people are stress eating.

“Stress eating is related to increasing intake for reasons other than physiological cues — eating because you have certain feelings, have certain emotions, but not actually because your body needs the energy and intake at that time,” Srnsky said.

So there are many alternatives to the double batch of chocolate cocoa cookies I made over the weekend. Here's a look at what you and your family can do:

Craving a savory treat? Instead of potato chips, try unsalted nuts

Craving sugar? Instead of a brownie, try a baked apple

Craving a crunch? Try veggies with a yogurt and herb dipping sauce instead of chips and dip